Network Rail has thrown its support firmly behind plans for Crossrail 2, a new cross-London railway which would relieve congestion and provide much-needed extra capacity on some of the most crowded sections of the Underground and national rail networks.

Young people in Bedford are being urged to consider becoming an apprentice with Network Rail as the company launches its 2013 advanced apprenticeship scheme.

An £8.6m project to provide faster, more efficient rail services at Lancaster has been given the seal of approval by Lancaster and Fleetwood MP Eric Ollerenshaw OBE.

It could have been a rude awakening for a pair of hibernating grass snakes discovered by Network Rail contractors in Slough last week – but thanks to expert advice the relaxing reptiles are continuing their slumber at a specialist wildlife centre until the spring.

Work to strengthen and repair a bridge which has carried trains across the River Thames for 150 years is due to begin later this month.

The redeveloped King’s Cross station has been given the royal seal of approval after a tour of the restored train shed and new western concourse by the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.

Six men whose attacks on railway and communications cable across Hertfordshire, Essex, Leicestershire, Buckingham and London cost almost £715,000 have been jailed.